Rutherford School, 1a Melville Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 7HZ 020 8688 7560 rutherford@rutherfordschool.org.uk rutherfordschool.org.uk VACANCY: Care Assistant – Advert £13.15 per hour Full time (35 hours per week) Term time only Start Date: As soon as possible Rutherford School About Us: At Rutherford School, we are a dedicated and inclusive school that provides exceptional education and support for children with special educational needs, including profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD). Our goal is to create an environment where every young person can thrive, reach their full potential, and feel valued as part of our community. Our cohort is currently aged from 16-25 years. All our pupils are wheelchair users, are medically dependent and require full support with personal care. Pupils have access to fantastic facilities which include a hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms and onsite therapists and registered nurses. The Role: We are seeking passionate and compassionate Care Assistants to join our team and support our students with PMLD. As a PMLD Care Assistant, you will work closely with our teachers, teaching assistants, therapists and other support staff to help provide person centered care to ensure the well-being and safety of our students. You will assist with both individual and group activities, supporting students in the classroom and beyond, and ensuring they have access to a high-quality program of care. This is a very rewarding role, offering the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students who require highly individualised care and teaching. The hours of work will be from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. Key Responsibilities: • • Assist the class teacher in delivering care tailored to students with PMLD. Provide 1:1 and group support, helping students engage with their activities and personal development. Registered Charity No: 272905 in accordance with the Charities Act 1992-2006 A company limited by guarantee. Registration No: 1285858 Cardiff Follow us: @GarwoodFoundation @TheGarwoodFoundation • • • • • Provide personal care and daily living tasks, including feeding, toileting, and mobility, as required. Monitor and record students' progress, noting key developments and challenges. Foster a positive, safe, and nurturing environment where students feel encouraged and valued. Collaborate with the teaching team and external professionals to ensure a holistic approach to student care and development. Assist with students' social and emotional development, promoting independence and building confidence. For all these duties (and more) you will receive a first-class induction and ongoing training from qualified professionals. You will be assigned a 'buddy' to mentor you and make sure that you are confident in your new role, and you will have a teacher and senior TA who will set targets for you whilst supporting you. Person Specification: • • • • • • Experience providing care for children or young adults with PMLD, physical and learning disabilities, or other special needs (desirable). A patient, empathetic, and flexible approach to supporting students with complex needs. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. Good communication skills, both with students and colleagues. Willingness to undertake further training, including safeguarding and manual handling. A positive, can-do attitude and a genuine passion for supporting students with special educational needs. Qualifications: • • A Level 2 or 3 Care qualification (or equivalent) is desirable, but not essential. Relevant qualifications or training in special educational needs, such as a Level 2 or 3 in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) would be an advantage. Why Join Us? • • • • • • • Be part of a supportive, friendly, and dedicated team. Receive ongoing professional development and training opportunities. Make a meaningful difference to the lives of students with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Work in a nurturing environment with small class sizes, allowing for tailored and individual support. What We Offer Hours of work are 35 hours per week (8:30am - 4pm), Monday to Friday, term time only. Flexible working will be considered. Competitive and negotiable rates of pay. • Career progression opportunities within the school. How to Apply: If you have a passion for supporting students with very special needs and want to join a school that values diversity, inclusion, and personal development, we would love to hear from you. We consider applications throughout the year. To download an application form and Job description please visit our website on: www.rutherfordschool.org.uk. Completed applications are to be emailed to: rutherford@rutherfordschool.org.uk or sent by post to the attention of: HR Manager, Rutherford School, 1a Melville Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 7HZ. The vacancy advertised is subject to receiving two satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS and medical clearance check. Rutherford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunities employer. References and DBS Disclosure will be required for the successful applicant. Photographic identification, evidence of right to work in the UK and certificates of any relevant qualifications will need to be provided at interview stage. We look forward to receiving your application! Rutherford School, 1a Melville Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 7HZ Tel: 020 8688 7560, Fax: 020 8406 8220 Email: rutherford@rutherfordschool.org.uk Website: www.rutherfordschool.org.uk Registered Charity No. 272905
Rutherford School Role Description – School Governor Governor’s work together to carry out their core functions Ensuring there is clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction. Holding Head Teacher to account for the educational performance of the School and the performance management of staff. Overseeing the financial performance of the School Budget. Ensuring the voices of stakeholders is heard. Governors must also ensure that the Governing body complies with all legal and statutory requirements and adhere to its Term of Reference, as a delegated sub-committee of The Garwood Foundation Board of Trustees. (Charity 272905). Governing body strategic responsibilities Governing bodies work closely with Head Teachers, they are responsible for day to day management whereas the role of the governing body is strategic. As such, governors are responsible for: Determining the mission, values and long-term ambitious vision for the school. Deciding the principles that guide school policies and approving key policies. Working with senior leaders to develop a strategy for achieving the vision. Ensuring that parent, pupils, staff and the wider community are involved consulted and informed as appropriate. Ensuring that all pupils have access to a broad, balanced and appropriate curriculum. Monitor health and safety of School site. Approving the school’s budget and ensuring it is managed effectively. Agreeing the school’s staffing structure and keeping it under review to ensure it supports the delivery of the strategy. Ensuring robust risk management procedures are in place and that risk control measures are appropriate and effective. Establish a culture of high educational standards, which promotes staff and pupil wellbeing Performance management of the Head Teacher. Approve and review school policies, and hold staff to account for their implementation Monitoring and evaluating school performance Governors must monitor the priorities that have been set to ensure progress is being made by: Measuring the school’s impact and progress towards its strategic objectives. Ensuring the required policies and procedures are in place and the school is operating effectively in line with these policies. Evaluating relevant data and feedback provided by school leaders and external reporting on all aspects of school performance. Asking challenging questions of school leaders to hold them to account. Holding the Head Teacher to account for standards, financial probity and compliance with agreed policies. Visiting the school to monitor implementation of the strategy and reporting back to the board. Meeting, Panels and Committees When required and appropriate, governors are expected to serve on panels or committees: Recruitment panels for senior leaders. Hear staff grievances and disciplinary matters. (Not Staff Governor) Deal with formal complaints. The Garwood Foundation Finance Committee (Finance Governor) Meet with School Safeguarding leaders (Safeguarding Governor) Be available during any Ofsted visits. Other topical sub-committees across Foundation relevant to their area of knowledge. Contribution to the governing body Governors should ensure that they are making a positive and meaningful contribution to the governing body by: Attending meetings (a minimum of 3 full governing board meetings and a number of committee meetings each year), reading papers and preparing questions for senior leaders in advance. Establishing and maintaining professional relationships with Leaders, Trustees and colleagues on the board. Getting to know the school; making visits to the school occasionally during school hours. Attending School/Foundation events and celebrations. Undertaking induction training and developing knowledge and skills on an ongoing basis. Personal interests Put responsibilities as a governor before personal interests. Ensure any business or pecuniary interests are declared as required and withdraw from meetings as appropriate. Other Maintain confidentiality Act at all times fairly and without prejudice. Support the school in the community, exercising prudence and tact if contentious issues affecting the school arise outside the GB, and follow procedures agreed by the GB. Skills and experience 1 Essential Desirable Critical listening and ability to ask effective questions Strategic thinking Excellent communication Problem-solving and analysis Living or working with children or young people with a disability or additional needs. Finance and/or accounting knowledge Work in Health Services and/or nursing Knowledge of education and/or PMLD Marketing and communications skills HR experience Leadership and management skills Time commitment The time commitment for school governors will vary. However, all governors must attend at least 3 meetings of the full board per year. The term of office is 3 years. Some Governors may sit on a committee focused on an area they have knowledge of, or are particularly interested in, for example, the finance committee. Committees generally meet up to 3 times a year. Preparation for meetings includes reading papers and preparing questions for senior leaders. You will also be expected to undertake any training required to enable you to discharge your role effectively. Governors are also expected to visit the school while it is open to pupils at least 3 times per year. If you would like to know more about becoming a school governor, please contact: Director of Services: Lee.bennett@garwoodfoundation.org.uk Chair of Governors: Jackiesanders@live.co.uk Visit: https://garwoodfoundation.org.uk/ https://rutherfordschool.org.uk/ V1 8/2/21 2
Teaching Assistant – Advert £20,527 p.a. Full time (35 hours per week) Term time only Start Date: As soon as possible About Us: At Rutherford School, we are a dedicated and inclusive school that provides exceptional education and support for children with special educational needs, including profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD). Our goal is to create an environment where every young person can thrive, reach their full potential, and feel valued as part of our community. Our cohort is currently aged from 16 - 25 years. All our pupils are wheelchair users, are medically dependent and require support with personal care. Pupils have access to fantastic facilities which include a hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms and onsite therapists and registered nurses. The Role: We are seeking passionate and compassionate Teaching Assistants to join our team and support our students with PMLD. As a PMLD Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with our teachers, therapists and other support staff to help provide tailored learning experiences, promote positive behaviour, and ensure the well-being and safety of our students. You will assist with both individual and group activities, supporting students in the classroom and beyond, and ensuring they have access to a rich and stimulating educational experience. This is a very rewarding role, offering the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students who require highly individualized care and teaching. The hours of work will be from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. Key Responsibilities: • Assist the class teacher in delivering lessons tailored to students with PMLD. • Provide 1:1 and group support, helping students engage with their learning and personal development. • Support with personal care and daily living tasks, including feeding, toileting, and mobility, as required. • Monitor and record students' progress, noting key developments and challenges. • Contribute to the creation of individualised learning plans and support strategies. • Foster a positive, safe, and nurturing environment where students feel encouraged and valued. • Collaborate with the teaching team and external professionals to ensure a holistic approach to student development. • Assist with students' social and emotional development, promoting independence and building confidence. For all these duties (and more) you will receive a first-class induction and ongoing training from qualified professionals. You will be assigned a 'buddy' to mentor you and make sure that you are confident in your new role, and you will have a teacher and senior TA who will set targets for you whilst supporting you. Person Specification: • Experience working with children or adults with PMLD, learning disabilities, or other special needs (desirable). • A patient, empathetic, and flexible approach to supporting students with complex needs. • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. • Good communication skills, both with students and colleagues. • Willingness to undertake further training, including safeguarding and manual handling. • A positive, can-do attitude and a genuine passion for supporting children with special educational needs. Qualifications: • A Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent) is desirable, but not essential. • Relevant qualifications or training in special educational needs, such as a Level 2 or 3 in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) would be an advantage. Why Join Us? • Be part of a supportive, friendly, and dedicated team. • Receive ongoing professional development and training opportunities. • Make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with profound and multiple learning disabilities. • Work in a nurturing environment with small class sizes, allowing for tailored and individual support. What We Offer • Hours of work are 35 hours per week ( 8:30am - 4pm), Monday to Friday, term time only. Flexible working will be considered. • Competitive and negotiable rates of pay. • Career progression opportunities within the school, for higher level TA posts with additional responsibilities. How to Apply: If you have a passion for supporting children with special needs and want to join a school that values diversity, inclusion, and personal development, we would love to hear from you. We consider applications throughout the year. To download an application form and Job description please visit our website on: www.rutherfordschool.org.uk. Completed applications are to be emailed to: rutherford@rutherfordschool.org.uk or sent by post to the attention of: HR Manager, Rutherford School, 1a Melville Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 7HZ. The vacancy advertised is subject to receiving two satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS and medical clearance check. Rutherford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunity employer. References and DBS Disclosure will be required for the successful applicant. Photographic identification, evidence of right to work in the UK and certificates of any relevant qualifications will need to be provided at interview stage. We look forward to receiving your application! Ruther for d School, 1 a Melville Avenue, South Cr oydon, CR 2 7 HZ Tel: 020 8688 7560 , Fax: 020 8406 8220 Email: r uther for d@rutherfor dschool.org.uk Website: www.r utherfordschool.org.uk Registered C harity No. 272905
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Jobs & Careers
Working for Garwood is not just a job, it encapsulates so much more.
The magic that happens behind the doors of all our sites has to be seen to be believed. Why not contact us to come and see – we know you won’t be disappointed. All vacancies across all sites will be posted here. Please send your CV and covering letter to: human.resources@garwoodfoundation.org.uk
Care Assistant (Rutherford School)
We are seeking passionate and compassionate Care Assistants to join our team and support our students with PMLD. You will assist with both individual and group activities, supporting students in the classroom and beyond, and ensuring they have access to a high-quality program of care. This is a very rewarding role, offering the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students who require highly individualised care and teaching.
Community Governors
Governors are essential for the effectiveness and success of our charity and it is an extremely rewarding and fulfilling role. We are looking for Governors who are able to offer their expertise, valuable knowledge and experience to our unique charity.
If you are interested, please send your CV or a letter of interest to HR.
HR/Finance Administrator
We are seeking a motivated and well-organised HR/Finance Administrator to provide essential administrative support to both our HR Officer and Finance Manager. This is a varied and rewarding role, ideal for someone with strong attention to detail and an interest in both HR and finance functions within the charitable or care sector.
Teaching Assistant (Rutherford School)
We are seeking passionate and compassionate Teaching Assistants to join our team and support our students with PMLD. As a PMLD Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with our teachers, therapists and other support staff to help provide tailored learning experiences, promote positive behaviour, and ensure the well-being and safety of our students.
You will assist with both individual and group activities, supporting students in the classroom and beyond, and ensuring they have access to a rich and stimulating educational experience. This is a very rewarding role, offering the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students who require highly tailored care and teaching.
Voluntary Escorts (Bramley Hill)
Would you like to gain valuable experience in the care sector? If so Bramley Hill Day Centre is looking for volunteers to assist drivers during morning pick up and afternoon drop off.
If you are interested please contact Khaled.
Volunteers for activity sessions (Bramley Hill)
Bramley Hill Day Centre always welcomes volunteers for weekly or monthly sessions, particularly in the following:
- Singing/Music sessions
- Drama sessions
- Basic IT tutor
- Activity tutor/co-ordinator
Volunteers must be over 18 years of age.
If you are interested please contact Maryam
Volunteers for our Charity Shops
If you are interested, please send your CV to our shop manager.
JOB DESCRIPTION MAINTENANCE STAFF Job Title: Caretaker & Maintenance Person Reports to: Headteacher / Premises Manager Location: South Croydon and Surroundings Job Purpose The Caretaker / Maintenance Person will play a key role in ensuring that the school and associated charity shops are safe, secure, and well maintained. The post-holder will be responsible for the upkeep of buildings, grounds, vehicles, and facilities across both settings. This includes carrying out a wide range of maintenance, compliance, and security duties to support the smooth running of daily operations and to ensure a safe, welcoming environment for pupils, staff, volunteers, customers, and visitors. Key Duties and Responsibilities School Transport Transport school buses to and from the garage as required (shared responsibility). Carry out routine vehicle checks, including oil, water, fuel, and clamping equipment. Maintain the cleanliness and presentation of the school buses. Grounds and Gardens (School) Undertake grass cutting, weeding, pruning, and low-level tree trimming. Water plants and maintain outdoor water features. Pressure wash paths and keep external areas clear of debris. Carry out repairs to fencing and other outdoor structures. Clear leaves from paths and roofs to prevent hazards. Apply salt and grit to paths during winter to ensure safety. Building Maintenance (School and Charity Shops) Ensure gutters and drains are kept clear and functional. Undertake painting, decorating, and general repair work. Complete minor plumbing repairs and maintenance. Collect maintenance materials from local suppliers when required. Assist with small refurbishment projects and site improvements. Facilities and Compliance (School) Assist with the Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) of school equipment. Deliver and collect equipment to and from student homes when required. Unlock the school in the mornings and secure the premises at the end of the day. Conduct weekly fire alarm tests and monthly emergency lighting checks. Carry out monthly checks of water temperatures in line with compliance requirements. Assist with setting up facilities, including erecting the marquee as required. Ensure school toilets are appropriately stocked with consumables. Undertake quarterly descaling of shower heads, hoses, and kettles. Swimming Pool Maintenance (School) Test and record water chemical levels daily (Monday to Friday) to meet required standards. Clean the pool and surrounding areas to ensure a safe and hygienic environment. Carry out routine pool maintenance tasks, including weekly backwashing of filters. Charity Shops Carry out minor repairs, decorating, and maintenance to ensure shops remain safe, functional, and presentable. Assist with PAT testing of all electrical items Support shop staff and volunteers with practical facilities tasks when required. Respond to any maintenance or compliance issues promptly. Person Specification Essential Proven experience in caretaking, maintenance, or a similar role. Competence in a wide range of practical skills, including basic plumbing, painting, and general repairs. Ability to carry out groundskeeping and gardening tasks. Understanding of health and safety requirements in both school and retail environments. Good organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively. Reliability, flexibility, and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Ability to use hand tools and electrical power tools safely and effectively. Able to work independently, managing own schedule and using initiative. Strong communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with staff, students, and contractors, demonstrating a cooperative and approachable attitude. Calm under pressure, with confidence in responding to emergencies. Confident working at height and capable of manual handling and heavy lifting (training provided). Conscientious and reliable, taking pride in the quality of work delivered. Knowledge of basic health and safety requirements. Full, clean UK driving licence. Willingness to undergo an enhanced DBS check. Desirable Previous experience working in a school or educational environment. Previous experience supporting retail/charity shop operations. Knowledge of pool maintenance procedures. PAT testing experience (training may be provided).